We’ve got exciting news! The CAF Red Tail Squadron family has grown!

This week we announced the addition of a new logistics team focused on bringing the inspirational message of the Tuskegee Airmen to new audiences, both on and off the tarmac. The addition will bring further momentum to the Squadron’s successful outreach program aimed at inspiring people of all ages through the history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen.

Kristi Younkin

Kristi Younkin, our new Senior Logistics Coordinator, is a longtime CAF Red Tail Squadron volunteer. As a project management and process improvement professional, she brings leadership acumen as well as a passion for aviation to her role. Younkin holds a private pilots license, has experience organizing air shows, is a volunteer with the CAF B-29 Squadron and manages public relations for Younkin Airshows, in which her husband Matt flies an aerobatic routine in a Twin Beech.

“I’m thrilled to be joining the team and having the opportunity to put my organizational skills to good use in this exciting industry,” said Younkin. “I’m passionate about the mission of the CAF Red Tail Squadron and am excited to be a part of delivering the message of the Tuskegee Airmen and helping to change lives for people across the country.”

Emily Malavolti

Also joining the team is Emily Malavolti, assistant to the logistics coordinator. Malavolti’s excitement for aviation and enthusiasm to share the inspirational message of the CAF Red Tail Squadron has its roots in attending numerous air shows and volunteering for the Squadron. She recently began to log time towards her private pilots license, and hopes her work with the Squadron will help others pursue their dreams in aviation.

“The Red Tail family is excited to infuse new talent into the team. We look forward to putting together our best season yet of outreach visits. Kristi’s expertise in system development and process flow will enable us to build on our already very strong foundation,” said CAF Red Tail Squadron Leader Bill Shepard. “Within the air show industry, the CAF Red Tail Squadron is one of the country’s busiest and most impactful teams focusing on inspiring youth to rise above, be responsible and achieve their goals. Kristi’s addition will go a long way to support our mission and its impact on audiences both at air shows and within the communities we visit.”

The 2017 schedule for RISE ABOVE Red Tail, the annual cross-country tour of the Squadron’s P-51C Mustang Tuskegee Airmen and RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit, is well underway. Although many key events are already confirmed, the Squadron is focused on bringing RISE ABOVE Red Tail to new audiences and areas of the country. Air show directors and event coordinators are invited to contact Younkin at logistics@redtail.org or (479) 228-4520 to bring this exciting and inspirational program to their community, and learn how the Squadron partners with local schools and youth organizations to increase the impact of their air show or event.

The CAF Red Tail Squadron is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to educating audiences across the country about the history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, America’s first black military pilots and their support personnel. Learn more at www.redtail.org.